The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on 23/6 that the Iranian team will be allowed to enter the United States from Mexico two days before their match against Egypt in Seattle, Washington. This marks an extension from the previous one-day allowance.

Despite the easing, a DHS spokesperson noted that other security measures and control procedures for the Iranian team remain in place. Players and coaching staff must still depart US territory on the same day their match concludes.

“We are committed to providing the safest tournament possible, with equal conditions for all players, staff, and fans of participating teams,” DHS affirmed.

Coach Amir Ghalenoei reacts during Iran's 0-0 draw with Belgium in Group G of the 2026 World Cup at Inglewood, near Los Angeles, California, on 21/6. Photo: AP

Before the 2026 World Cup began, the Iranian team relocated its "base camp" from Arizona in the US to Tijuana in Mexico. This move became necessary after several coaching and support staff members were denied US entry visas.

Under the initial travel restrictions, Iranian players were only allowed to enter the country within 24 hours before a match. For their two recent matches in Los Angeles, California, team members traveled from Mexico to the US on the day of the game, then immediately returned to Mexico on the same day.

The Iran Football Federation last week declared its intention to lodge a complaint with FIFA regarding the travel restrictions imposed on its national team.

Mahdi Mohammadnabi, Vice President of the Iran Football Federation and head of the national team delegation, stated that players endured “unequal” conditions compared to other teams in the tournament, including limitations on travel and visa-related issues.

Head coach Amir Ghalenoei previously described Iran as the “most unfairly treated team at the World Cup,” while captain Mehdi Taremi called the team's situation a disaster.

Following the draw with Belgium on 22/6, midfielder Alireza Jahanbakhsh expressed that the entire team simply wished for similar treatment to other national teams and sufficient time to adapt to local conditions before their next game.

Iran currently holds second place in Group G after two draws against Belgium and New Zealand. If they defeat Egypt in their final group stage match, the West Asian team has a chance to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.

Thanh Danh (According to Reuters, Politico, RT)